KUALA LUMPUR: The 2020 UMNO General Assembly started with the hoisting of the party flag,Sang Saka Bangsa, at Plaza Merdeka, World Trade Center (WTC) here today.

The flag-raising ceremony was closely monitored by the Sabil Squad to ensure it was conducted in compliance with the prescribed standard operating procedures (SOP).

UMNO president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi arrived at 8am and was greeted by the party Wanita chief Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad; its Youth Chief Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and Puteri Chief Datuk Zahida Zarik Khan.

Also present were UMNO deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and secretary-general Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

Ahmad Zahid then raised the UMNO flag, accompanied by the singing of the UMNO song, 'Bersatu, Bersetia, Berkhidmat' by party members.

The 2020 UMNO General Assembly, which was supposed to be held last year, but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is being held in hybrid fashion, combining physical presence at WTC KL and virtually involving all the party divisions.

The two-day assembly, which kicked off yesterday with the assemblies of the Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings, is taking place in the new normal under close watch by the National Security Council (NSC) and the Ministry of Health (MOH).

This edition of the assembly is also held on a moderate scale without massive celebrations, such as opening of business stalls and visits by the public, unlike in previous years.


--BERNAMA